Treating generalised anxiety disorderCommentary: Putting research into practiceCommentary: A patient's story of living with anxietyCommentary: Information for patients receiving cognitive therapy

Abstract

Generalised anxiety disorder is a chronic, disabling mental illness affecting 1-2% of adults. 1 It is characterised by worry and anxiety that are hard to control and that interfere with daily functioning. Although common and treatable, it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. 2 Only half of people with the disorder consult a doctor for it. Those who do are rarely offered the most effective treatment-cognitive therapy. Most patients are seen and treated by primary care doctors, who may be unfamiliar with the condition. About 8% of patients consulting primary care professionals have generalised anxiety disorder. 3 Treatment involves cognitive therapy or medication. There are large gaps in the evidence on treatments, such as on their long term effects or on the value of combining cognitive therapy with medication.